This course presents the approach and theoretical / mathematical background for discrete modelling. . There is an extensive training in conceptual modeling and specification of discrete event simulation models. The module consists of a theoretical part and a part in which a discrete simulation project is carried out. Part of theory time will be spent on learning Arena in a number of courses

Course Contents

1. Discrete dynamic systems modelling theoryThis part consists of a lecture series on mathematical modeling of discrete problems, theory on discrete event simulation and four half-days of Arena instruction.

2. Discrete projectThe theory about discrete event simulation is applied to a case. On the basis of a case description, students work in pairs to make a model, use it in an analysis of the problem situation and report on the results.

Study Goals

Upon completion of the course the student:

knows the role of dynamic systems modelling within the process of problem solving and policy making;

can apply mathematical techniques such as distribution functions, hypothesis testing, and queuing theory to small dynamic problems;

can apply the modelling cycle to the development of discrete models;

has basic knowledge of all the steps in discrete event systems modelling;

knows different techniques used in discrete simulation and knows when to apply these (conceptualization, specification, validation/verification, reduction, data gathering, etc.);

can represent discrete models in Arena in an efficient and effective manner;

can use the models to carry out an analysis by setting up an experiment with the model.

Education Method

Lectures, lab and project.

Computer Use

Arena. A CD with Arena with a one-year license will be made available for home use through the Service Point.

Arena handbook. Project case descriptions (will be handed out in class and through Blackboard).

Prerequisites

No formal prerequisites, but the course builds on basic knowledge of statistics (distributions and hypothesis testing) as covered in epa1311.

Assessment

Half-way through the semester, there is a mid-term examination. Students have to obtain at least a 5.5 for the examination in order to be allowed to take part in the discrete project in the second half of the semester. The final grade is the average of the mid-term exam and the mark for the project. The project has to be graded with at least a 5.5 in order to pass the course.